Summer is officially here, and for football fans, that means one thing: scouting season is in full swing. Our annual Summer Scouting series is back, giving Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans a head start on the college players who could make an impact in the NFL. Whether you're tracking future stars for your fantasy team or just love the draft buildup, these reports are your go-to guide for the names you'll hear all fall.
Sure, we're diving into quarterbacks, offensive tackles, and edge rushers—because every position matters. A player drafted by the Bucs today could end up facing the Bears or Steelers tomorrow. That's why we're here: to make sure you're the most informed fan in the room, no matter where these prospects land.
This week, we're spotlighting Indiana Hoosiers offensive tackle Carter Smith. A standout in high school—earning first-team All-Ohio, all-district, and All-Ohio Capital Conference honors—Smith brings a polished game to the college level. His film may not be packed with flashy "wow" moments, but that's because he's all about consistency. Watch his tape against Ohio State, and you'll see a player who gets better as the game wears on, adjusting on the fly to keep defenders at bay.
Smith's explosiveness off the snap is a highlight in the run game, where he engages defenders before they can react. But don't sleep on his pass protection: he plays a smart leverage game that frustrates rushers. He's a tackle prospect worth tracking as he looks to sharpen his skills in 2026 and break through that next-level ceiling. Keep an eye on this Hoosier—he's one to watch when the draft rolls around.
